Pumpkin Protein Drink Recipe

I think if he could, my husband would drink pumpkin pie. He already inhales it every Thanksgiving! So this pumpkin protein drink is about as close as it gets to making his dreams come true. It's an ultra easy breakfast to make when you're on the go, and it’ll get you in the mood for the soon-to-be holiday season.

The drink is packed with vitamins, protein (I added soy protein) and calcium, making it markedly healthier than the real deal, and perfect for vegetarians like my husband Lulu.

Directions

Whip the evaporated milk; it will give the drink a thicker consistency.

Combine the evaporated milk, 1 cup soy milk, the banana, frozen pumpkin purée, vanilla soy protein powder, ice cubes and vanilla extract in a blender. Blend all the ingredients for about 2 minutes. While the mixture is blending, add the remaining vanilla soy milk and the sweetener of your choice (I used agave nectar). The consistency of the drink should be thick but still easy to drink.

Enjoy!

Tips

I used homemade pumpkin purée I had placed in ice cube trays and stored in the freezer. You could also use canned pumpkin.

You can find soy protein powder in any health food store like GNC or many supermarkets like Whole Foods. I like using protein powder as a supplement for my husband who's a vegetarian! Just make sure the protein source is clearly labeled. You should get either whey or soy protein. If the source is unclear, it's possible the protein is derived from remnant animal parts.

During the holidays, I blend a mix of 4 spices (cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg and clove). You can add any other typical Thanksgiving flavors you like, such as allspice, mace or finely-powdered star anise.